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1 of 6The Bentley Continental GT3 concept is based on the recently unveiled Continental GT Speed shown on the left.

Photo by Bentley

2 of 6With the Continental GT3 concept, Bentley has announced a return to the world of motorsports for the first time since 2003.

Photo by Bentley

3 of 6The Continental GT3 wears a noticeable aerodynamic body kit, but modifications run much deeper.

Photo by Bentley

4 of 6Bentley claims the Continental GT3 will strike a balance between speed and endurance, suggesting a return to 24-hour marathon races may be in the car's future.

Photo by Bentley

5 of 6Bentley says to expect a return to racing sometime in late 2013. More details on the Continental GT3 will likely emerge before then.

Photo by Bentley

6 of 6Unlike the all-wheel drive Continental GT Speed it is based on, the GT3 receives its power from the rear wheels only.

Photo by Bentley

Bentley hasn't fielded a race car since its Bentley Eight prototype won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2003, but that hiatus is drawing to a close. The British luxury automaker has unveiled its rear-wheel-drive Continental GT3 racing concept for the Paris motor show and announced its intention to return to the race track in late 2013.

The Continental GT3 is based on the Continental GT Speed, which Bentley claims is its fastest road-going vehicle ever. That car is powered by a twin-turbo W12 engine producing 616 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, driving all four wheels.

We do know that the GT Speed's four-wheel-drive system has been swapped for a rear-drive setup on the Continental GT3. Beyond that, there's no word yet on what mechanical alterations Bentley is making to the GT Speed to turn it into a competitive racer. We can be sure that change runs deeper than the aerodynamic kit that adorns the GT3.

International racing governing body FIA has reportedly approved the GT3 concept, and Brian Gush—Bentley director of chassis, powertrain and motorsport—is heading up its development.

The company claims the GT3 program will yield a balanced racer capable of both speed and endurance and will be “eligible for a range of race series, up to and including 24-hour marathons"—which opens the door for future participation in the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The 2012 Paris motor show—or Mondial de l'Automobile, as it is officially known––will take place Sept. 27 through Oct. 14. It occurs every two years, alternating with the Frankfurt motor show in Germany. Paris is a showcase for the latest in design, but automakers will also be showing off their latest concept cars, green cars and supercars.